Module #6- Option#1- Kelly Funk

Popplet

I tried Popplet out for this module. I used it to introduce our Northeast Region of the US. We are starting with that region in Social Studies at the start of the year. We learn about the states and capitals, landmarks, geography, and government. As a 4th grade team, we also spend time learning about Ellis Island and immigration in this unit.

I have never used Popplet but once I started using it the program seemed similar to Padlet. You are able to add videos, links, post-it style information. However I found Padlet easier to use and manipulate. I think I would opt to use Padlet over Popplet. With both you are able to collaborate and share the information. You can also export the information in multiple ways. I do like the aspect of creating a "web" style document that connects from a main topic. Popplet allows you to write notes within each Popplet.

Here is the Popplet I created to support students.

I think that the Popplet I created would be a great landing page for the Northeast Region. Providing the link for students would give them a great way to get started learning. I would love to give my class an opportunity to add to the site. They would be able to add sites they find, videos or alternate gaming websites that support learning. Then they can learn from each other too. Share the knowledge!

Students would be able to use communication and collaboration from the ISTE standards when they work together to add to the Popplet. They would contribute to the project as a class and we will learn more because of it.

Module #3- Digital Storytelling- Kelly Funk

I really enjoy using video production in my class and seeing the products students create to share their learning. We have worked with WeVideo, iMovie, Animoto, Blabberize, Screen Casting/Audio Casting/ Video using Quicktime & Photo Booth. Students always amaze me when they compile their images, text, and videos into a final movie. I was looking forward to sharing using digital storytelling. 

I decided to use a different website to create this video to help me become more familiar with it. I used Stupeflix and I thought it worked well. I was able to easily add text, music, videos and audio files. I wasn't able to use the audio speaking feature unless I used the upgraded version. I think this can be avoided if you created the sound files on your computer through Quicktime or other audio recording programs and adding it in that way. I liked that you could use your own music or use their selection. I also enjoyed the different style choices that had available for you to pick from. 

Miss Funk's Summer Trip to 

Yellowstone National Park

(or see below)

I created the video to share about my summer vacation with this years group. I think that a picture or video can share more than just talking about it. Students can see what I did this summer. Since I have not started up again at school this will come in handy on the 1st day. 

Creating Digital Stories allows students to express their learning, compile, restate and share with others. Synthesizing information and organize their stories in logical or chronological order. Stupeflix was very user friendly and I know that students would easily love using this website. I will add it to the other video production tools we use in our class. Students are very good at picking which application or tool suits their project or audience the best. 

Miss Funk's Summer Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Module 1- Option #1- Padlet Use- Kelly Funk

I had used Padlet only once before and I wanted to try it out in a way that was more applicable to my classroom needs. I liked the idea of using "virtual post-its" because I mean what teacher doesn't have a million notes of "to-do" sprinkled around their classroom, computer or desk but I was just unsure of how easy it was to set up. I usually do an activity at the beginning of the year where I engage students in a conversation about roles of a teacher vs. the role of a student. Students work in groups to brainstorm what students and teachers are expected to do for a positive and fun year. We use a large sheet of Post-it Paper. They come up and write their ideas up on the paper (color coded for teacher/student). Then we discuss as a class the most important aspects of teacher and student roles. We put stars by them and share why they are so important to the class. I want them to know that expectations are also part of a teachers role.


Using Padlet was awesome! I really like the design style and how user friendly it was. It was easy to add links, videos, pictures, audio capabilities, and more. With just a click you are able to add those aspects. You can set up the flow of posts to be vertical (one after another) or free flowing. I think that using Padlet would allow groups to post their information and see other groups thoughts or build on them. Instead of taking extra time to have students go up and write on the large Post-it paper they can have opportunity to do that when they think of things. It prevents rewriting, overcrowding around the Post-it paper, and allows for instant discussion. I also think that students would enjoy using this to share their thoughts. Even students who may be too shy to raise their hand can share their ideas here.

Using Padlet addresses the ISTE's communication and collaboration criteria. Communication is free flowing between students, teachers, and other contributors. Students are working together but in a digital environment. Adding to each others ideas and leading the conversation.

The application doesn't limit the sharing with just our class either. The sharing capabilities with Twitter, Facebook, embedding codes, links and more. We could add it to our LMS (learning management system) Edmodo or Google Classroom depending on what our district encourages us to use this year. It can become a topic that continues to get reviewed and added to with comments. Parents would also be able to access the information after sharing it out.

By really using Padlet for my own classroom activities, it showed me that I can be more efficient and this can encourage students to think deeper on a topic. I will use it again.

Summer 2015 Web 2.0 Workshop Introduction-Kelly Funk

Hi Everyone! My name is Kelly Funk. I am a 4th grade teacher in Prospect Heights. This school year will be my 8th year teaching. I teach all subject areas. I am very excited to start up again after a nice summer off.

I received my bachelors degree from The University of Illinois- Champaign-Urbana and a masters degree from Roosevelt with an endorsement in Special Education. I also completed my endorsements in Bilingual and EL instruction from National Louis. I am looking to gain knowledge from other educators on how they incorporate technology in their classroom. I want to expand on what I know and challenge my abilities through this course and future National Louis courses for Technology Integration.

Toby

Ollie

In my personal life, I live in McHenry, IL. I moved here a year ago. I love the area! I live here with my boyfriend. We went on a road trip to Yellowstone National Park this summer and had so much fun. We have two cats, Toby & Ollie. Other things from this summer… I started doing Zumba and it is awesome! I hope to continue throughout the year for stress management and fun.

Yellowstone National Park Summer 2015 Trip

I have used Web 2.0 skills in my everyday life by connecting with friends through Facebook and blogs.  I also have a multiple email addresses for separation between personal and professional work. I also connect with friends and family through apps (can also be web based) that use video, texting, and data sharing. Communication is the main reason I participate in these online activities.

I love utilizing technology to enhance lessons and break through barriers that can limit students creativity and deeper learning. I use Twitter to connect with my PLN and share out information about our class. This year I will be creating a new Twitter account solely for my class and students to share with our parents, families and other followers. We are a Google Apps for Education (GAFE) district and all class assignments are shared through Google Docs. Students learn to collaborate, share documents, and create using Apps available through Google. Students are also introduced to many other ways to express their learning (Animoto, WeVideo, Weebly, etc.). The type of technology used is driven by student ideas and how they want to express their understanding of a concept.

I have been working to incorporate technology into my teaching and support student learning. I am happy to be participating in our Web 2.0 workshop to learn from other educators and hear how everyone utilizes tools throughout their practice. I am also looking for more support that this style of teaching and use of technology is encouraged. I hope to take what I learn and apply as I teach.

Thank you!

Kelly Funk